I have only seen my aunt 3 times in my entire life, she is almost like a stranger to me. I was wondering how I can make the situation less awkward. Also, anytime family visits, they insist on cooking the food, like tons of southern style soul food. I am not a fan of southern style food or soul food at all. How can I decline their offers politely without causing a scene?

If I was your aunt I would not bother coming if you're so unsociable

There's nothing wrong with telling them outright you don't like it. For example, I don't like seafood. When people suggest we go to a seafood restaurant I just say, "Sorry, but I don't do seafood."

There's nothing wrong with telling them outright you don't like it. For example, I don't like seafood. When people suggest we go to a seafood restaurant I just say, "Sorry, but I don't do seafood."